The Ebell Club

History

Our History

Inspired by scholar Dr. Adrian Ebell, the Ebell of Los Angeles was founded by women, for women in 1894. The non-profit organization remains dedicated to its original mission “to interest women in the study of all branches of literature, art and science and the advancement of women in every branch of culture.” The organization’s philanthropic endeavors include awarding scholarships to students and providing grants to charities that help at-risk women and children in the Los Angeles community. The club also hosts social and cultural events that inspire and empower. It is a gathering place to connect with artists, educators, authors, entertainers, speakers and politicians. The Ebell has been honored to host diverse and outstanding women such as Amelia Earhart, the last Queen of Romania and Michelle Obama.

Designed by architect Sumner Hunt, the Ebell of Los Angeles is commemorating its 92nd year on Wilshire Boulevard. With three levels and 75,000 square feet, the renaissance-inspired structure is a noted architectural treasure and registered National Historic Landmark. The building includes a grand dining room, art salon, courtyard garden, and 1,238 seat Broadway-style theater. History resonates throughout the building – the Art Salon was one of the first art galleries in Los Angeles; Judy Garland was discovered on the Wilshire Ebell Theatre stage; and in nine decades, the theatre stage has been graced by performers ranging from Elizabeth Taylor to U2.

1894

Ebell Founded

Ebell of Los Angeles founded by Harriet W. R. Strong, Clara Burdette, Alice Parsons, Emmie Parsons and Franklina Bartlett. Strong is elected as first President. A born entrepreneur, she invented an irrigation system which made her the top walnut producer in the country and deemed the “Walnut Queen.”

1897

Ebell’s first Clubhouse

The Ebell’s first Clubhouse is built at 724 South Broadway. The building is described as a “modified Greek temple.”

1905

Larger Clubhouse built

Architects Hunt and Eager are commissioned to design a larger Clubhouse located at 1719 South Figueroa Street. This location was occupied by the Club until 1927.

1908

LA Red Cross

The Los Angeles Chapter of the California Red Cross is created with the help of the Ebell Club.

1918

Rest Cottage Association

The Ebell’s philanthropic organization, The Rest Cottage Association, is created to provide aid to “women in need of loving care.” The RCA was started in a cottage on West 95th Street.

1919

The Ebell Scholarship Fund

The Ebell Scholarship fund is established to assist students in the Los Angeles community.

1924

Julia Morgan Designs RCA

Julia Morgan, famed architect of San Simeon, designed a new building for the Rest Cottage Association, located at 135 North Park View Street.